India’s express pacer Umran Malik’s return to red-ball cricket has been delayed. Umran wanted to play in the upcoming Buchi Babu Trophy where senior players will be in attendance as well. However, his plans were derailed due to dengue. The Jammu & Kashmir pacer expressed that he is recovering from dengue.
“I would have loved to play in the tournament, but I’m just recovering from dengue,” the 24-year-old told Indian Express.
Umran could not impress the selectors in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 as well. He got injured and was ruled out of the tournament. He was in for further disappointment as he did not get enough time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
“I was fully prepared that season, but the weather didn’t help. Then I was really looking forward to the IPL as I’d gained a lot in the months preceding the IPL. Unfortunately even that didn’t go the way I wanted. But it also gave me the time to work on things I wanted to in the practice sessions. I’ve definitely become a better bowler if you ask me. After the IPL, I injured my hamstring and just as I recovered I’m down with dengue,” he added.
Umran wants to bowl in Duleep Trophy
Umran who has clocked over 150kmph is currently focusing on swinging the ball as it will make him more lethal. He is trying to bowl yorkers with the new ball as well to outsmart the batters. The pacer is aiming for a comeback in the Duleep Trophy which is likely to feature star players and then make a case for his Test debut on overseas tours with Border-Gavaskar Trophy scheduled for later this year.
“I want to keep it simple. My plan is to be ready for the domestic season. If I play more matches, then I would definitely be a better bowler. Even though I played only five Ranji matches, I realised how much I gained out of it. I’m waiting for the Duleep Trophy. If I play the entire season then I will know where exactly I stand and it will open up opportunities. I’m waiting to hold the red ball in my hand,” he said.
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